Illustrated Gazetteer of the Maritime Kingdoms, Volume 33

The Southwestern Oceans: The Nations of Western India

Among the population of three hundred thousand likely referring to the population of the capital or the nobility specifically, given the context, the titled ladies all wear garments made of fine silk and thread. Their robes are wide with large sleeves; notably, they do not cover their heads the author observes a lack of veils among certain classes or periods, which may differ from other accounts of the era, nor do they venture outside their homes. Their beauty is said to fade easily; in less than ten years, they appear just like old crones. Mothers gain status through their sons, regardless of whether they are the primary wife or a concubine.

The people especially prize "Summer Horses" original: 夏馬 (Xiama); possibly referring to a specific breed or seasonal trade of Arabian horses, sparing no expense to acquire them. Their passion for horses is such that no other material object is held in higher esteem. In their diet, vegetables are rarely served. While fish and meat are provided at banquets for guests, a spread is only considered truly magnificent if it features a grand abundance of various fruits.

Persia original: 巴社 (Bashe) has long been known as a land of literature and refinement. In former days, those famous for their poetry included:

• Hafiz original: 哈斐士 (Hafeishi); the famous 14th-century lyric poet, who excelled at praise and eulogies.
• Saadi original: 沙底 (Shadi); the 13th-century poet known for the Gulistan and Bostan, who was skilled at discussing social customs and morality.
• Firdausi original: 法部 (Fabu); likely referring to the author of the Shahnameh, the Persian Book of Kings, whose works focused on romance and sentiment.

People from Europe have translated and read these works, finding the writing marvelous and full of interest, each reaching the pinnacle of their respective styles. However, the literature of ancient times has long since become fragmented and incomplete.

In recent times, the King has placed great importance on literature. Every day, he requires a poet to remain at his side. He once boasted of this practice to an envoy from Great Britain original: 英吉利 (Yingjili). Whenever a poet completes a draft, the King immediately grants a gold coin as a writing fee original: 潤筆 (runbi); literally "moistening the brush," a traditional term for a literary payment. Institutions for medicine and astronomy literally "star-calculation" are also held in equal esteem with literature, with various...